In honor of Mother’s Day (May 9 — don’t forget), we’re looking at all the ways cannabis benefits women. While it’s true (and terrible) that women face an uphill battle when it comes to the social stigma of cannabis use, particularly for mothers, the fact remains that more women are benefitting from the plant, in more ways than one.
MENSTRUAL ACHES & PAINS
If you know anything about cannabis, you’re going to have some familiarity with the endocannabinoid system, i.e., the regulatory system in our body that interacts with cannabinoids. Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the body, including a woman’s uterus and ovaries. Here’s the thing — cannabinoids can improve some of the worst parts of a woman’s monthly cycle – think cramps, nausea, bloating, headaches, all that jazz. Chalk it up to the anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic properties of THC, which can directly suppress those unpleasant symptoms.
Cannabis even has a role in women who are experiencing menopause by mitigating symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes. Cool, right?
HEADACHES
It’s unfair, but true — women are more likely to suffer from headaches and migraines than men. Instead of reaching for the OTC painkillers, cannabis be a great alternative. Topical applications to the temples or back of the neck or a tincture for quick relief are both options worth exploring.
DEPRESSION
Another unfair-yet-true reality for women — they’re twice as likely to experience depression than men. There is some evidence that cannabis use can be useful for mood elevation, which can be crucial for women stuck in negative and harmful thought cycles.
BETTER SEX
This benefits women and the men and women who love them. Turns out, low-THC strains may enhance sexual experiences by promoting relaxation and boosting sensitivity. So the right infused chocolate could be fit for her and for you.
NEW STEPS
No idea how to begin using cannabis for specific benefits, like those above? Ladies, we got you! Next time you visit The Dispensary, ask your budtender for a recommendation. Start with the symptoms or condition you’re hoping to alleviate, and be prepared for a little experimentation to find a strain and consumption method that do the trick.